This wine comes from a new project from vigneron Christophe Baron that focuses on vines planted at such high density only draft horses can fit between the rows to plow them. It offers outrageous complexity with aromas of flowers, smoked meat, and pepper leading to a simultaneously elegant yet supremely rich feel. Nothing short of an accomplishment—it’s the year’s top wine.

Coming from a vineyard planted at a staggering 3,555 vines per acre (a typical vineyard in the state would be more like 1,000), this wine is palate shaking in its intensity with notes of green olive, flowers, earth, and mineral.

5. Avennia Arnaut Syrah Boushey Vineyard Yakima Valley 2012 - $50

In a very short time, Avennia has catapulted itself into the upper tier of the state’s wineries. This wine, however, takes things to a whole new level. It pops with aromas of smoked meat, earthy funk, and mineral followed by dense fruit and savory flavors that are rich but don’t sacrifice balance.

The VigneronFrench-born winegrower Christophe Baron (Cayuse Vineyards, No Girls, Horsepower) crafted five wines on this list, including, as it would happen, the first four in our Top 10. The pioneer of winegrowing in the Rocks District is known for uniquely styled wines, equal parts intellectual appeal and straightforward pleasure.

Reynvaan is a consistent top performer on our annual list, and this year is no exception. Brooding black pepper, earth, and olive brine aromas lead to concentrated smoke and savory notes on the palate and a hyperextended finish. Just a baby now, this wine should deliver well into the next decade.

7. Gramercy Cellars Lagniappe Syrah Columbia Valley 2012 - $55

The name Lagniappe comes from the Cajun word for “a little something extra” and this wine certainly has that. The palate is brimming with herb and savory notes, almost overwhelming the senses with its intensity. The best Lagniappe to date.

8. Quilceda Creek Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley 2012 - $140

This benchmark cabernet sauvignon takes days of being open to fully reveal its charms. But oh, what charms it has. It’s wound up tightly at present with incense, barrel spices, and blue and black fruit supported by a firm scaffolding of tannins. Give this wine at least seven years in the cellar to see it at its peak.

This wine comes from the winery’s vineyard nestled in the foothills of the Blue Mountains. It’s über aromatic with notes of black olive, sea salt, smoked meat, and earth. The flavors are rich but light; that finish just won’t quit.

Winemaker and master of wine Bob Betz is in top form with a wine that offers a near-endless list of aromatic descriptors, from black currant and bay leaf to graphite and smoke. It’s seamless in feel with layered fruit that captivates the senses. Drink it at a cool 62 degrees to see it shine.